Absa Cup Launched as 2026 Champions Set for Continental Stage

02.03.2026 | Football DNA

The 19th edition of the Absa Cup has officially been launched in Lusaka, marking a significant milestone in the competition’s history as it takes a bold step onto the continental stage. For the first time, the 2026 Absa Cup champions will qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup, elevating the tournament’s status and competitive stakes.

Absa Bank Zambia Managing Director Mizinga Melu announced an increased sponsorship package of K7 million for this year’s competition, with the winners set to walk away with K1,100,000. Melu described the Absa Cup as more than just a domestic tournament, calling it a gateway to continental football and a powerful platform to showcase Zambian talent and stories beyond the country’s borders.

Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts Elvis Nkandu commended Absa Bank for its unwavering commitment to developing sport in Zambia. He highlighted the importance of strong corporate partnerships in nurturing excellence and creating opportunities for athletes across the country.

Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) President Keith Mweemba was also in attendance and reaffirmed the competition’s critical role in player development. He emphasized that the Absa Cup continues to provide a valuable platform for emerging talent to shine on a national stage, with the added incentive of continental qualification raising the bar even higher.

This year’s theme, “In the stands, we stand as one,” reflects the unity and shared identity that football fosters across the nation. As the 2026 edition gets underway, excitement is building for what promises to be a historic and highly competitive tournament.